Datuk Seri Salleh Said Keruak emphasized the importance of focusing on similarities in order to build a strong and united nation in his latest message of unity for the Chinese New Year celebration.
In a series of video clips posted on his Facebook page, Salleh, who was Usukan state assemblyman, stressed the need to show care and respect for other religions as the key to a harmonious society.
Following the Christmas celebration in December, Salleh pointed out that residents of the Kota Belud district who came from different religious backgrounds are once again coming together on Saturday (Feb 10) for the Chinese New Year celebration.
“We come from different religious and cultural backgrounds. We respect the cultural celebration of each race. Last time it was Christmas and this time it is Chinese New Year,” Salleh said.
“Respecting the culture of others is important in creating a tolerant and harmonious society. After this, we have Hari Raya and the Harvest Festival,” he added.
“This is the uniqueness of Sabah, particularly Kota Belud, where we celebrate our similarities because we want to build a strong and united society for the sake of a better future,” he said in the video.
Another video showed Salleh learning about the traditional lion dance, its music and the meaning of each drum beat from the locals.
The former Sabah chief minister also attempted to dance using the lion costume after spending some time rehearsing his steps.
In a separate video, Salleh also spent time with the locals trying to toss the colorful Yee Sang.
On Dec 25 last year, Salleh shared messages of unity during the Christmas celebration where he met the residents of Kota Belud and joined them for Christmas carolling.
